Former Ayr youth can be their downfall

"No holding back from any of the boys on Saturday, we are looking forward to Ayr ...

On Saturday Kyle McAusland returns to Ayr for the first time as a Dunfermline player. The 21 year old who stays in Cumnock in South Ayrshire was three years in the youth system at Somerset Park before joining Rangers as an under 15. He said:-

"It will be good going back to see some old faces. There are still a few boys there from my youth days but I am looking forward to the game. I played for Brechin City against them there and scored that day as well."

Ayr were one of the teams to make the Championship play offs last season but this season after a good start they find themselves in the play off spot at the foot of the table.

"They started the season flying with a few good results then lost their form and then their manager. A new manager has come in and that will make it a difficult game. They are not in the best vein of form but neither are we, to be perfectly honest.

"There is a lot to play for because they will be wanting the three points to start climbing the league and we want the three points to keep on the tors of the ones at the top. It could go either way and one of those games that will be end to end. They like playing that way and we like to play that way. It should be an entertaining game but hopefully we can get a few goals."

Kyle lamented the result at Cappielow last Saturday:-

"You can accept that if somebody breaks up the park and puts one in the top corner from 20 or 30 yards you need to hold your hands up and say 'good finish'. In the first half we were completely dominant, dictating the play. I cannot really remember them having a clear shot at goal in the first half.

"We didn't take our chances. Andy Barrowman had a header and there were a few breakaway chances as well but that is what happens. If you don't take your chances you are always likely to end up conceding sooner or later. That is what happened in the second half; two breakaway goals. Both times it was a three on two, four on two in their favour. Maybe a lack of organisation but two really disappointing goals to concede."

Having been signed as a midfielder, Kyle's role against Morton was at centre back due to the absence through suspension of Gregor Buchanan. He is comfortable playing in either role if that is what the manager needs:-

"I do not feel out of place in these positions. If after playing three or four games I have to move into another role, I am happy with that if there is a suspension or injury to ultimately help the team. On a personal level I thought I played reasonably well."

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